Welcoming 2013: 16 Days to a New, Improved You

Christmas is almost here — can you feel it? Most of us are probably already busy finishing our Christmas shopping, attending pre-Christmas parties and gatherings, preparing our homes for family reunions and get-togethers with friends, and other things that are associated with the holiday season.

In the midst of everything though — all the stress, hustle and bustle of it all — many of us tend to forget to take time to slow down and really remember what the holidays are truly about.

In fact, according to the Merriam-Webster online dictionary, the word “holiday” is Middle English in origin, “from Old English hāligdæg, from hālig holy + dæg day.”

In addition, Wikipedia states: “The word originally referred only to special religious days. In modern use, it means any special day of rest or relaxation, as opposed to normal days away from work or school.”

Thus, this holiday season, let’s try to set aside some time, not just for “rest or relaxation,” but also to see what we can do to be better persons for the New Year ahead.

A wise Chinese proverb attributed to Lao Tzu states, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” To make the “journey to a better you” seem easier and more “do-able,” we’ve broken down the things you can do on a day-to-day basis. So take it easy, and focus on each day as it comes. By the time the New Year rolls around, you’ll be surprised at how “changed” you’ve become!

Day 1 (December 16)“I will wake up early and attend the Misa de Gallo with my husband and/or kids (and continue doing so until Christmas).”

Bringing your kids would depend on your family situation — of course, it would be ideal to go to Mass as a complete family! (Tip: If you can’t bring yourself to wake up that early, there are usually anticipated Masses starting December 15 — check with your local parish office.)

If you’re not a Catholic, you can replace attending the Misa de Gallo with an allocated time spent in prayer or some form of meditation. It will help keep you “centered” for the hectic days ahead!